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Watch: Chargers' Kimani Vidal scores TD on first career touch
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal. Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Watch: Chargers RB Kimani Vidal scores TD on first career touch

Active for the first time this season, Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Kimani Vidal wasted no time to make an impact during Sunday's road divisional matchup against the Denver Broncos. 

Six plays after Los Angeles' defense forced a Denver three-and-out, Vidal — a sixth-round pick in this past April's draft — earned his first NFL touch and made the most of his opportunity. On 1st-and-10, Chargers QB Justin Herbert dropped back to pass and connected with Vidal, who ran a wheel route, for the tailback’s first career touchdown, a 38-yard score to extend Los Angeles' lead to 9-0. 

Vidal, the great-nephew of MLB Hall of Famer Hank Aaron, was a healthy scratch through Los Angeles' first four games of the season. However, an ankle injury to fellow Chargers RB Gus Edwards opened the door for Vidal to play an increased role behind starter J.K. Dobbins on Sunday.

Those who watched Vidal during his stellar collegiate career at Troy surely aren't surprised by his sudden success. Despite being a sixth-round pick, the 5-foot-8, 215-pounder was one of the most productive running backs in college football over the past two seasons. In 2023, Vidal ranked second in the FBS in rushing yards (1,661) and 15th in touchdowns (14).

With Edwards sidelined for at least the Chargers' next three games after being placed on injured reserve, it'll be intriguing to see whether Vidal will continue to shine and potentially carve out a more prominent role.

Colum Dell

Colum is a Texas transplant, born and raised in New Jersey. In addition to being a West Virginia University alumnus, he is a long-suffering New York Giants, Knicks and Mets fan. He joined Yardbarker in November 2022 and has primarily covered the NFL since

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